"Our" business?
OPINION: One particular bone the Hound has been gnawing on for years now is how the chattering classes want it both ways when it comes to the success of NZ's dairy industry.
Former Fonterra chief executive Theo Spierings passed away in the Netherlands over the weekend.
A statement issued by The Purpose Factory, a Dutch-based foundation and consultancy focused on global sustainable development goals and business transformation and innovation, says Spierings died “unexpectedly” after a brief illness.
Spierings was a co-founder and chairman of The Purpose Factory.
The statement says Spierings had more than 30 years’ experience in the dairy industry – including leading Fonterra for nearly seven years. He became Fonterra CEO in 2011, replacing Andrew Ferrier and beating internal candidates for the job.
He previously led Dutch dairy cooperative Royal Friesland Foods in its 2008 merger with Campina.
Prior to his departure from Fonterra, Spierings caused controversy when it was revealed he was one of the highest-paid executives in the country, pulling in $8.32m in 2017.
The Purpose Factory statement says his legacy, and the impact he had on those he worked with and who knew him, will be remembered fondly.
“At this difficult time, Theo’s family has requested privacy. They appreciate the outpouring of love and support from around the world during this sad time. A private memorial service will be held in the Netherlands.”
According to the most recent Rabobank Rural Confidence Survey, farmer confidence has inched higher, reaching its second highest reading in the last decade.
From 1 October, new livestock movement restrictions will be introduced in parts of Central Otago dealing with infected possums spreading bovine TB to livestock.
Phoebe Scherer, a technical manager from the Bay of Plenty, has won the 2025 Young Grower of the Year national title.
The Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand (FCANZ) celebrated the best of the best at the 2025 Fencing Industry Awards, providing the opportunity to honour both rising talent and industry stalwarts.
Award-winning boutique cheese company, Cranky Goat Ltd has gone into voluntary liquidation.
As an independent review of the National Pest Management Plan for TB finds the goal of complete eradication by 2055 is still valide, feedback is being sought on how to finish the job.
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